Learner drivers will be allowed on motorways thanks to new legislation - and Highways England thinks it will make the roads safer.

Under the present driving laws, drivers with a provisional licence are unable to use motorways until they have passed their test.

But the law will change in June to allow students in a dual-control car and accompanied by an approved driving instructor to get onto motorways.

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling , who introduced the new legislation, said: “The UK has some of the safest roads in the world and we want to make them even safer.

The L plates on a learner driver's car (Image: Anna Draper)

“Younger drivers are up to seven times more likely to be killed or seriously injured compared with drivers over 25 and lack of experience is an important factor.

“Allowing learners to drive on motorways in a supportive environment will help them develop a practical understanding of how to use motorways safely before driving independently.”

The Government believes the move will help reduce casualties by giving learners early experience of motorway driving.

Highways England believe the law change to allow learner drivers to drive on motorways will see "a smarter generation of motorway road users".

There is always a demand for professional driving instructors. (Image: iStock / Getty Images Plus)

Richard Leonard, Head of Road Safety at Highways England, said: “Safety is our top priority and we welcome today’s change which will help equip learner drivers to drive safely on motorways when they have passed their tests.

“We look forward to supporting the motorway drivers of tomorrow as they develop these new driving skills and get invaluable practical knowledge and experience of using motorways.”

Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency chief driving examiner Lesley Young said: “DVSA’s priority is to help you through a lifetime of safe driving.

“We’re determined to do more to improve safety for all road users.

“We want to modernise driver training so that novice drivers gain the skills and experience they need to help them and everyone else to stay safe on our motorways.”

The Department for Transport consulted on the changes earlier this year, receiving wide support from both learner drivers and driving instructors.

Jasmine Halstead, head of learning and development for British School of Motoring, said: “Per mile travelled motorways are our safest roads.